Health experts are warning that the 2025-2026 flu season is not over and could linger into the warmer months. Dr. Michael Glazier, chief medical officer at Bluebird Kids Health, notes that influenza A dominated early winter, but influenza B cases are now emerging and expected to persist.
This season's intensity is notable, partly due to a new influenza A H3N2 variant, Subclade K, against which the population has limited natural defense. Decreased vaccinations nationwide and reduced vaccine effectiveness against this specific strain are also contributing factors.
The CDC now ranks this season as high severity for children, with approximately 60 pediatric deaths attributed to Subclade K. Dr. Glazier emphasizes that it is not too late to get a flu shot, as vaccination remains the best tool to minimize illness duration and severity, even against emerging strains.
Distinguishing flu symptoms from spring allergies is crucial. The flu typically presents with high fever, chills, body aches, night sweats, headaches, and stomachaches - symptoms absent in allergy sufferers.
Parents are urged to monitor children for persistent fever and dehydration. Adequate rest, hygiene, hydration, and nourishment are recommended to support the immune system's defense against viruses.